Maria Sharapova "Thrilled" to Cover Winter Olympics in Russian Hometown of Sochi as Correspondent for NBC

You'll be seeing a very lovely familiar face while watching coverage of the Winter Games in Sochi, Russia, in February.

Pro tennis player Maria Sharapova has joined NBC as a correspondent and will be offering her insight and commentary on Russia's first Winter Olympics. The athlete, who was the flag bearer for her native Russia at the 2012 London Olympics Opening Ceremony, is especially excited since the games are being held in her hometown.

"I'm thrilled to be joining the NBC family for this year's Olympic Games in my hometown of Sochi," Sharapova said in an exclusive statement to E! News.

"The Olympic experience is unlike anything else, and as a past Olympian it means even more to me for the Games to be hosted in such a remarkable place. Sochi has such a rich history and culture, and I'm excited that it will now hold a place in so many athletes' hearts from all over the world."

And judging by the tall beauty's accolades in her sport, she's perfect for the job.

Currently the fourth-ranked women's tennis player in the world, Sharapova is one of 10 women to achieve a "Career Grand Slam," winning singles titles at Wimbledon, U.S. Open, Australian Open and French Open. She has also held the No. 1 World ranking five times and, in June 2011, Sharapova was recognized as one of the "30 Legends of Women's Tennis: Past, Present and Future" by Time magazine.

"Maria transcends sports as one of the world's most recognizable stars," said Jim Bell, executive producer of NBC Olympics. "Growing up in Sochi until she was six years old and with family and friends still living in the area, Maria will offer a unique and personal perspective on a place she knows so well."

The Winter Games begin Feb. 6, 2014. (E! Online is a member of the NBCUniversal family.)